
1.
In a wide open area free of debris and bystanders,
lower the cutting unit to the ground. Stop the
engine.
2.
Move the cutting unit engagement switch to
DISENGAGED and remove your foot from the
traction pedal so it is fully released.
3.
Turn the ignition key to START. The engine should
start. If the engine starts, go to step 4. If the engine
does not start, there may be a malfunction in the
interlock system.
4.
Rise from the seat and engage the cutting unit
engagement switch while the engine is running. The
engine should stop within 2 seconds. If the engine
stops, the switch is operating correctly; go to step 5.
If the engine does not stop, there is a malfunction in
the interlock system.
5.
Rise from the seat and depress the traction pedal
while the engine is running and the cutting unit
engagement switch is DISENGAGED. The engine
should stop within 2 seconds. If the engine stops,
the switch is operating correctly; continue operation.
If the engine does not stop, there is a malfunction in
the interlock system.
Operating Characteristics
Familiarization—
Before mowing grass, practice
operating the machine in an open area. Start and stop
the engine. Operate in forward and reverse. When you
feel familiar with the machine, practice operating
around trees and obstacles. Also drive up and down
slopes at different speeds.
Another characteristic to consider is the operation of the
brake pedals. The brakes can be used to help turn the
machine. However, use them carefully, especially on
soft or wet grass because the turf may be torn
accidentally. Another benefit of the brakes is to maintain
traction. For example: When operating on a side hill, the
uphill wheel slips and loses traction. If this situation
occurs, depress the uphill brake pedal gradually and
intermittently until the uphill wheel stops slipping, thus,
increasing traction on the downhill wheel.
Warning System
—If a warning light comes on during
operation, stop the machine immediately and correct the
problem before continuing operation. Serious damage
could occur if the machine is operated with a
malfunction.
Mowing
—When you are at the area to be mowed,
release the cutting unit transport latches. Move the axle
shift lever rearward to Mow and the throttle to FAST so
the engine is running at maximum speed. Lift the
engagement switch and move forward to engage the
cutting units.
Curbside Mowing
—To reduce the possibility of foreign
debris escaping from under the cutter deck while
mowing at or near a road or walkway curb, always keep
the outside edge of the cutter deck inside the curb. The
cutter deck caster wheels should not be guided along the
top of the curb; this could cause the cutter deck to hang
over the edge of the curb. Never allow the edge of the
cutter deck to extend over the edge of the curb while the
blades are turning. Always stop mowing and disengage
the mower blades when encountering pedestrians or
other bystanders/ passers-by.
Note:
The cutting deck is equipped with a breakaway
system to prevent wing decks from being damaged if a
solid object is struck. If a wing deck strikes a solid
object and unlatches from the center cutting deck, raise
and lower the wing deck to reset in operating position.
Transport
—When mowing is complete, disengage the
20
The interlock switches are for the operator’s
protection, so do not disconnect them. Check switch
operation daily to assure the interlock system is
operating. If a switch is defective, replace it before
operating. Regardless of whether the switches
operate correctly or not, replace them every two
years to assure maximum safety. Do not rely
entirely on safety switches—use common sense!
CAUTION
When operating a 4-wheel drive machine, always use
the seat belt and Roll-Over Protection System together
and have the seat pivot retaining pin installed.
WARNING